Behavioral-Functional Teratology

Abstract

During the past decade, there has been intense interest in the development of methods to detect subtle changes resulting from in utero and/or perinatal exposure. Because this interest is concerned with protecting society from potential harm, it reflects an advancement in safety assessment (Christian, 1983a; Riley and Vorhees, 1986). Published reports that maternal exposure to lead (Palmisano et al., 1969) and methyl mercury (Matsumoto et al., 1965; Harada, 1968) could produce central nervous system (CNS) disorders in children spurred research activity and regulatory action in behavioral teratology, with an emphasis on neurotoxic effects. Animal models demonstrating neuro-toxic effects somewhat similar to those of humans were soon reported (Spyker et al., 1972; Butcher et al., 1973; Spyker, 1975; Hutchings, 1983).

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